What are the long term effects of taking remicade? Can AS be controlled by diet, vitamins, and ex?

What are the long term effects of taking remicade? Can AS be controlled by diet, vitamins, and exercise? I was recently diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis and my doctor wants to start me on remicade but I am afraid of the side effects. I didn't say any comments of anyone getting infections, or the flu. How often did they get sick a year with infections or flu while taking remicade? I am doing a gluten, dairy, and sugar free diet, and taking natural supplements that have helped. But the doctor still wants to start me on remicade. I'm at a crossroad and need honest feedback. Thank you.

Responses (2)

I can tell you had two loading doses so far! Worst decision if my life. I'm sick sore throat since first infusion but now flu like.. Burning in my private parts and during unrination, worse joint muscle pain then before, sweating, chills... Landed in ER this past weekend for pain... thought I had a kidney stone but my lymph nodes are swollen in my stomach... I hAve 2 stones but they are still in my kidneys... Just miserable!!! I have AS too. I did try Enbrel relief was temporary. Hence my dr switched me to Remicade. Im done... Rather have pain. I dont know about your thoughts on treatment. I would think not because it is autoimmune and will get worse if not treated. I don't know and dont care at this point. Im so sick from Remicade. Never had this on Enbrel... Good luck!

I have been on Remicade for going on 10 years this September. The drug has been a godsend for me because it took many years for a prescription that worked. Over the past two years I have been watched carefully because my liver enzymes are too high. I saw a specialist and she told me that my liver has the potential to sclerosis. The liver score is from 0-4, 4 being sclerosis and I am at a 2! I have never been a heavy drinker, although I like my sweets but, cannot see why at 57 I would have the damage already to my liver that I do. I am considering going off of it completely. In the past I have done juicing, naturopathy, etc. with no discernible changes. I am at the point though that I need to choose life. A wonderful effect the Remicade has had on my life is my eyes (Iritis/Uveitis - chronic) and Remicade is not indicated for this form of arthritis but, I have had the benefit of an almost total remission to flares. I have been getting at least 3 good chest infections or viruses in the past couple of years so, I am concerned as well! Does anyone have any more information? I hope this helps you.